Communication Tips For The Family

If you sus­pect or know that the per­son you are speak­ing with has a hear­ing loss, please con­sider the fol­low­ing tips to enhance communication:

• Sit or stand within three to six feet to max­i­mize audibility
• Remain at eye level to fos­ter visual cues
• Gain the person’s atten­tion before speaking
• Use facial expres­sions and ges­tures to give clues to the mean­ing of your message
• Raise your voice but do not shout because loud speech may sound distorted
• Speak slowly and distinctly
• Use short, sim­ple sentences
• Rephrase your words if the per­son does not appear to under­stand or responds inappropriately
• Avoid speak­ing directly into the person’s ear because it can dis­tort your mes­sage and hide all visual clues